Ohio has two proposed ballot initiatives that are in the process of collecting signatures for a vote to amend Ohio’s Constitution to approve use of marijuana for medical purposes.

Keep This in Mind

The Union County Drug Free Coalition has supported the stance that “marijuana as medicine should be treated with the same logical, rational approach as any other drug” and be subject to the same rigorous research, inspection and approval by the US Dept. of Food and Drug Administration for increased health and safety.

In short, we agree that citizens should not vote on marijuana as a medicine just as we do not vote on Lipitor, Zoloft or any other drugs as a medicine.

In other states where medical marijuana is legal, marijuana is not just sold in its raw form, but also as marijuana-based foods, beverages and candies.

“One in 11 people who have ever used marijuana will become dependent on it; this risk rises to 1 in 6 when use begins in adolescence.” -White House Office of National Drug Control Policy

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and the Union County Drug Free Coalition wants to encourage parents to learn more about the signs of teen depression and the risk of related substance abuse.

It’s not unusual for teens to feel “stressed out” or “down”.The many physical, emotional and social changes that occur in adolescence can make life difficult for teens and their parents. Unrealistic expectations around academics, athletics, relationships or appearance can make matters worse.

Often it is difficult to know the difference between “normal” adolescent mood changes and depression.About 1 in 5 teens has suffered with depression at some point. But many depressed teens do not get the right treatment.When depression goes on untreated the outcome may become very serious. (WebMD /teen depression)

Poor performance at school

Troubled relationships

Increased rates of substance abuse

Risky sexual behavior

Increased rates of physical illness

Increased rates of suicide attempts and completions

Did You Know

The 2012 Youth Risk Behavior Survey conducted among students at Marysville, North Union and Fairbanks Local Schools indicated that 41% of Union County youth in 7th, 9th and 11th grades reported moderate to high risk of experiencing depression.

In order to feel better, some teens may experiment with alcohol, drugs or become involved in unhealthy relationships as a coping mechanism. As a result they can put themselves more at risk for problems with alcohol and other drugs.

Teens have an over-active impulse to seek pleasure and

less ability to consider the consequences.

Nearly one-third of people with major depression also have an alcohol problem, according to one major study conducted by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. In many cases, depression may be the first to occur. Research shows that children who are depressed are more prone to develop alcohol problems once they reach adolescence. Teens that’ve had an episode of major depression are twice as likely as those who aren't depressed to start drinking alcohol.

Depression may be a particularly significant trigger for alcohol use in females, who are more than twice as likely to start drinking heavily if they have a history of depression.

Symptoms of Teen Depression

On-going sadness for no apparent reason is the most common sign of depression. Yet, teens with depression may have signs of extreme irritability, anger, or anxiety instead. Depressed teens often have physical complaints, such as stomachaches or headaches. These symptoms may cause absences from school or poor school performance.

Teens with depression may have changes in sleep habits with unexplained crying. They may become extremely sensitive to rejection or failure. Other symptoms may include:

Feeling helpless

Anger

Withdrawal from activities

Avoidance of peers

Apathy

Low self-esteem

Feelings of guilt or worthlessness

Difficulty concentrating

Changes in eating habits

Slow or rapid movement

Weight gain or loss

Substance abuse

Difficulty with authority

Suicidal thoughts or actions

How You Can Help

Teens need their parent’s guidance more than ever to understand all the emotional and physical changes they are going through.

Talk & Listen to your teen about their feelings and what is stressful to them.

Don’t Judge, remember your teen’s feelings are very real to them at the time.

Share your observations and concerns as a way to open the door to further conversation.

Lead by example to show your child how to relieve stress without using alcohol or other drugs.

This screen may help you and your doctor understand if you have a treatable mood disorder, like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder. National Institute for Mental Illness:www.nimh.nih.govNational Alliance for Mental Illness:www.nami.orgMental Health America:www.mentalhealthamerica.netUnion County Here 4 Hope Coalition:www.here4hope.org

The threat of teen suicide is very real. Teen suicide is currently the second leading cause of death in Ohio among 15-25 year olds. While some youth are at a greater risk for suicidal behavior, it is a very real threat to all children.

It’s not unusual for teens to feel stressed out or down. The many physical, emotional and social changes that occur in adolescence can make life difficult for teens and their parents. Parents to learn about the signs of teen depression and the risk of suicide.

You Need To Know …

42.3%of students in Union County report having moderate to high rates of depression.

20.6%of students in Union County report having thoughts about attempting suicide in the past year.

(Youth Risk Behavior Survey 2014 – 7th, 9th and 11th grade students)

Often it is difficult to know the difference between “normal” adolescent mood changes and depression. But many depressed teens do not get the help they need because it is unrecognized as a mental health disorder and overlooked as “typical adolescence”.

There is not always a clear sign to determine which teens will or will not attempt or complete suicide. The impulsive nature of adolescence increases the difficulty in predicting this risk. However, there are certain factors that place youth at a higher risk:

Previous suicide attempts

A family history of suicide (increases risk by 6 x)

A significant loss by death, divorce, separation, moving, or breaking up with a loved one

Pain, even long term lower level stress

Access to firearms (overdose also concern)

Sense of hopelessness

First 6 months post hospitalization at greatest risk

Additional points to consider: While girls are more likely to attempt suicide, boys are 4 times more likely to complete suicide. Also, gay and lesbian youth are 2-3 times more likely to complete suicide than other youth.

Symptoms of Teen Depression

On-going sadness for no apparent reason is the most common sign of depression. Yet, teens with depression may have signs of extreme irritability, anger, or anxiety instead.

Depressed teens often have physical complaints, such as stomachaches or headaches. These symptoms may cause absences from school or poor school performance.

Teens with depression may have changes in sleep habits with unexplained crying. They may become extremely sensitive to rejection or failure. Other symptoms may include:

Union County has a strong tradition of athletics and extracurricular activities, which is one of the strengths of our community. However, teens who participate in sports and extracurricular activities are still susceptible to making poor choices to use alcohol or other drugs.

70.3% of 7th, 9th and 11th grade students in Union County report being involved in athletics. However, those same students said that while their parents talked to them frequently about school events and homework, 41.5% reported their parents never or seldom talked about alcohol or other drugs.(Union County Youth Risk Behavior Survey 2014)

Parents have a critical role to play.

Be clear & consistent with your teen about the expectations for not using tobacco, alcohol and other drugs. Let them know what the rules and consequences are for breaking them before there is a problem.

Establish ways your teen can let you know they are in a situation that may involve alcohol or other drugs and may need to leave. (Text, call, etc.)

Know your child’s friends and their parents. Stay in touch with other parents so that you can be aware of any concerns and make sure your teen is where they said they would be.

Take advantage of opportunities in the car driving from to practices to talk about alcohol and other drugs and listen to what they have to say.

You should know . . .

Teens who participate in sports may have a greater risk of misuse and addition to opioid pain medications related to sport injuries. Parents and coaches should be aware of the potential danger of misusing these medications, since opioids have a high potential for abuse.

Sports can be a positive protective factor in a young person’s life because of structure, goal setting, fair play and achievement. But it’s not a silver bullet. Sometimes too much structure and stress might be one of the reasons teens drink alcohol or other drugs.

You can find more information about drug trends, parent tips and other resources visit: www.ucdrugfree.org. Follow us on Facebook at Union County Drug Free Coalition.

It’s Time to Talk …

Do you know what Dexingis?Your Teen Might.

Skittling, Dexing, Robotripping and Triple C’s are slang words for the abuse of over-the-counter cough medicines containing the ingredient dextromethorphan (DXM). There are over 100 medications on the market containing DXM.Some teens abuse these products to get high, others to induce sleep.

Teens that abuse medications with DXM often take up to 25 times the recommended dose.

Overdosing on these can induce nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dizziness, difficulty breathing and seizures. Combined with other drugs or alcohol, the effects can be worsened.

Teens listen, even if they act like they don’t. Talk with your child to help keep them safe. There are ways to bring up critical issues like medicine abuse with your teenager – the trick is to know the right questions to ask. Teens may mistakenly believe that because dextromethorphan (DXM) is usually found in OTC cough medicines then it must be harmless and is just an easy and safe way to get high. But it is not. When abused, DXM can cause serious side effects. Parents have the power to ensure their teens hear the truth.

Help keep your teen safe:

Learn the lingo.

Talk to your teen about medicine safety and side effects.

Safeguard your medications.

Look for possible signs of abuse such as empty bottles, boxes or pill blister packs.

Heading back to school can be stressful, especially for those entering middle or high school.

Studies show that times of transition increase a child’s risk for using alcohol or other drugs. For some students it may be the stress of a new school building, increased pressure to fit in, exposure to more peers that use, or coping with higher expectations from school, coaches and parents.

For whatever the reason, parents need to stay engaged in talking with their kids about staying alcohol and drug free.

Did You Know?

57.5% of Union County youth in 7th, 9th and 11th grades reported that their parents talked to them very often about school, but only 28.1% reported that their parents talked to them very often about alcohol or other drugs. (Youth Risk Behavior Survey 2012)

It is also important to know that for youth between the ages of 12 to 17, the hours after school are critical when it comes to preventing substance use. The majority of drinking, smoking and other drug use among teens takes place when they are hanging out together, unsupervised, after school. (Joseph A. Califano, JR. - How to Raise a Drug-Free Kid: The Straight Dope for Parents.)

Knowing where our children are and with whom they are spending their time with is critical for helping to prevent alcohol and drug use. This can be tricky for some families, who for one reason or another, have a child or children at home alone in the hours following school. Be clear and consistent about family rules and values.

Keeping kids engaged after school is a helpful to ensure their supervision and health. Those engaged in sports, band or other extracurricular activities for at least some afternoons during the school week, are at a reduced risk for use. And at even better odds are the children who routinely go home and do homework; they are at least risk for substance use.

While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to preventing youth from using alcohol, tobacco or other drugs, parents should remember these key tips:

Talk with your child about not using alcohol or drugs early and often.

For more information on parent tips go to Partnership for Drug Free Kids at www.drugfree.org.

It’s Time To Talk …

About Ohioans and Medical Marijuana

Ohio has two proposed ballot initiatives that are in the process of collecting signatures for a vote to amend Ohio’s Constitution to approve use of marijuana for medical purposes.

One of those groups will be in Marysville this Sunday, June 21 to collect signatures.

Keep This in Mind

The Union County Drug Free Coalition has supported the stance that “marijuana as medicine should be treated with the same logical, rational approach as any other drug” and be subject to the same rigorous research, inspection and approval by the US Dept. of Food and Drug Administration for increased health and safety.

In short, we agree that citizens should not vote on marijuana as a medicine just as we do not vote on Lipitor, Zoloft or any other drugs as a medicine.

In other states where medical marijuana is legal, marijuana is not just sold in its raw form, but also as marijuana-based foods, beverages and candies.

“One in 11 people who have ever used marijuana will become dependent on it; this risk rises to 1 in 6 when use begins in adolescence.” -White House Office of National Drug Control Policy

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It’s Time To Talk …

about Teen Depression & Substance Abuse

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and the Union County Drug Free Coalition wants to encourage parents to learn more about the signs of teen depression and the risk of related substance abuse.

It’s not unusual for teens to feel “stressed out” or “down”.The many physical, emotional and social changes that occur in adolescence can make life difficult for teens and their parents. Unrealistic expectations around academics, athletics, relationships or appearance can make matters worse.

Often it is difficult to know the difference between “normal” adolescent mood changes and depression.About 1 in 5 teens has suffered with depression at some point. But many depressed teens do not get the right treatment.When depression goes on untreated the outcome may become very serious. (WebMD /teen depression)

Poor performance at school

Troubled relationships

Increased rates of substance abuse

Risky sexual behavior

Increased rates of physical illness

Increased rates of suicide attempts and completions

Did You Know

The 2012 Youth Risk Behavior Survey conducted among students at Marysville, North Union and Fairbanks Local Schools indicated that 41% of Union County youth in 7th, 9th and 11th grades reported moderate to high risk of experiencing depression.

In order to feel better, some teens may experiment with alcohol, drugs or become involved in unhealthy relationships as a coping mechanism. As a result they can put themselves more at risk for problems with alcohol and other drugs.

Teens have an over-active impulse to seek pleasure and

less ability to consider the consequences.

Nearly one-third of people with major depression also have an alcohol problem, according to one major study conducted by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. In many cases, depression may be the first to occur. Research shows that children who are depressed are more prone to develop alcohol problems once they reach adolescence. Teens that’ve had an episode of major depression are twice as likely as those who aren't depressed to start drinking alcohol.

Depression may be a particularly significant trigger for alcohol use in females, who are more than twice as likely to start drinking heavily if they have a history of depression.

Symptoms of Teen Depression

On-going sadness for no apparent reason is the most common sign of depression. Yet, teens with depression may have signs of extreme irritability, anger, or anxiety instead. Depressed teens often have physical complaints, such as stomachaches or headaches. These symptoms may cause absences from school or poor school performance.

Teens with depression may have changes in sleep habits with unexplained crying. They may become extremely sensitive to rejection or failure. Other symptoms may include:

Feeling helpless

Anger

Withdrawal from activities

Avoidance of peers

Apathy

Low self-esteem

Feelings of guilt or worthlessness

Difficulty concentrating

Changes in eating habits

Slow or rapid movement

Weight gain or loss

Substance abuse

Difficulty with authority

Suicidal thoughts or actions

How You Can Help

Teens need their parent’s guidance more than ever to understand all the emotional and physical changes they are going through.

Talk & Listen to your teen about their feelings and what is stressful to them.

Don’t Judge, remember your teen’s feelings are very real to them at the time.

Share your observations and concerns as a way to open the door to further conversation.

Lead by example to show your child how to relieve stress without using alcohol or other drugs.

This screen may help you and your doctor understand if you have a treatable mood disorder, like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder. National Institute for Mental Illness:www.nimh.nih.govNational Alliance for Mental Illness:www.nami.orgMental Health America:www.mentalhealthamerica.netUnion County Here 4 Hope Coalition:www.here4hope.org

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Without question, talking to your child about substance use is extremely important in our efforts to protect our kids from alcohol and drugs. But there are other things that we need to do as parents to be effectively involved in preventing alcohol and drug problems for our kids and in our families.

Recent scientific research has found that the longer an individual postpones the onset (first use) of alcohol, tobacco or other drug use, the less likely the individual is to develop an addiction or other lifelong problems, including depression.

Believe it or not, parents are the most powerful influence on their kids when it comes to drugs. Recent research has found that 2 out of 3 kids ages 13-17 say that losing their parents' respect is one of the main reasons they don't drink alcohol, smoke marijuana or use other drugs.

Tips for Parents:

1) Don’t Be Afraid to be the “Bad” Parent: Sometimes, our fear of negative reaction from our kids keeps us from doing what is right. When it comes to alcohol and drugs, taking a tough stand can help our children to say no….“my mom or my dad would kill me if I drank or used.” Our decisions and our rules allow our child to use us as “the reason” for not using alcohol or drugs.

2) Connect With Your Child’s Friends: Pay attention to who your child is hanging out with, who’s coming to the house and get to know them. Encourage your child’s friends to come to your home, invite them for dinner and make them feel welcomed. Encourage your child to invite friends over to the house.

3) Make Connections With Other Parents Too: As you get to know your kids friends, take the opportunity to introduce yourself to his/her parents. It’s a great way to build mutual support and share your rules about alcohol and drugs. And, it will make it easier for you to call if your son/daughter is going to a party at their house to make sure that there will be responsible parental supervision.

4) Promote Healthy Activities: Help your kids, and their friends, learn how to have fun, and fight off the dreaded “I’m bored.” Physical games, activities and exercise are extremely important because of the positive physical and mental benefits. Encourage kids to become engaged in other school and community activities such as music, sports, arts or a part-time job.

5) Establish Clear Family Rules About Alcohol and Drugs: Setting specific, clear rules is the foundation for parental efforts in prevention, some ideas: * Kids under 21 will not drink alcohol * Kids will not ride in a car with someone who has been drinking or using drugs * Older brothers and sisters will not encourage younger kids to drink or use drugs * Kids under 21 will not host parties at our home without parental supervision * Kids will not stay at a kid’s party where alcohol or drugs are present. Consistent enforcement of the rules, with consequences, if needed is essential. Without consequences the rules have no value and will not work.

6) Get Educated About Alcohol and Drugs: You cannot rely on your own personal experiences or common sense to carry you through. Your ability to provide family leadership in prevention requires you to be better educated.

7) Be a Role Model and Set a Positive Example: Bottom line…. from a kid’s perspective,what you do is more important than what you say! Research studies show that parents who drink alcohol or use drugs are more likely to have kids who drink or use. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation; if you use medication, use only as directed, and do not use illegal drugs. If you host a party, always serve alternative non-alcoholic beverages and do not let anyone drink and drive.

8) Keep Track of Your Child’s Activities: Asking questions, keeping track, checking in are all important. Research has found that young people who are not regularly monitored by their parents are four times more likely to use alcohol or drugs. Make the time to know what is happening in your child’s life – especially in families where both parents work outside of the home, life is busy but you must find time for your children – know what they are up to!

9) Keep Track of Alcohol and Prescription Drugs: For kids, the most common source of alcohol and prescription drugs is parents. Make sure that your home is not a source of alcohol or prescription drugs for your kids or their friends.

10) Get Help!: If at any point you suspect that your child is having a problem with alcohol and/or drugs, get help. Don’t wait. You are not alone. AS A PARENT, YOU CAN HELP PREVENT YOUR CHILD FROM BECOMING ADDICTED TO ALCOHOL OR DRUGS. TAKING ACTION IS PREVENTION

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It’s Time To Talk …

About Your Teen's Developing Brain

There are a lot of reasons why parenting a teen can be challenging. Increased hormones and developing adolescent brain are part of the reasons why you’re teen’s moods and behaviors swing so dramatically. Did you know that research has shown that the brain does not fully mature until the age of 25!

You may have also heard that the part of the adolescent brain which controls reasoning and impulses develops during these later years. This development and raging hormones can shift your teen's emotions into overdrive, leading to unpredictable - and sometimes risky behavior. Does any of this sound familiar?

Especially now during these days stuck in the house, urge your teen to take “healthy risks”. Help them seek out activities such as organized sports, laser tag, ice skating, snowboarding, sledding, swimming, indoor rock climbing, music, and the arts.

Not only will it help to form positive lifestyle habits, it will help them burn some energy and create excitement!

Is your tween sporting a set of headphones, watching videos on their new tablet, or listening to music on their new phone? Young teens use their electronic gadgets to connect with each other and to keep up with popular culture. So just about the time your kid is tuning you out, you need to be more aware of what is filling their heads.

Did you know that popular artists including Rihanna, Miley Cyrus, Nicki Minaj and Kanye West have all referred to the drug “Molly” in their songs? “Molly” is basically the same as theEcstasy of the '90s but rebranded as a purer, gentler party drug. Additionally, andnot particularly surprising, a recent study of hit recordings finds nearly a quarter of them mention brand name alcohol, including the popular song “Royals” by Lorde. Consider doing the following:

Talk to your kids regularly about what they hear, and your expectations for their choices

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UCDFC Partners with Local Businesses to Reduce Youth Alcohol Use

The Union County Drug Free Coalition is partnering with local businesses that sell alcohol to remind their customers, "We Don't Serve Teens". We know that underage drinking is not only illegal, it can also lead to serious health and safety issues for our teens.

Rick Carder, owner of the Marysville Short Stop, was happy to put that message on the front door of his store. "I'm happy to help. We don't want kids drinking," said Carder. Local businesses have an opportunity to restrict access to alcohol and check identification to reduce underage drinking.

Although alcohol is typically downplayed as a serious drug, alcohol is the number one drug of choice among youth. In Union County, 36.1% of 11th grade students indicated they had consumed alcohol in the past 30 days. Over half of those surveyed who reported drinking in the past 30 days also reported having used alcohol on three or more occasions during that same period. These results were taken from the 2012 Union County Youth Risk Behavior Survey.

The Union County Drug Free Coalition is grateful to our local business partners who are doing their part to help youth choose healthy behaviors and stay drug free.

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It’s Time To Talk …

About Alcohol and Drugs

Social media sites to connect with peers have become very popular among adults and youth alike. Teens post text and pictures to express themselves and share about their lives. But more important than your teen having “likes” or “followers” there is a critical need to connect with you, the parent. Reading your child’s “tweets” or watching their video posts may keep you in the loop, but it doesn’t take the place of face-to-face time. Your connection with your child will serve as a backdrop to their relationships and decisions in the present and in the future, including the decision not to use alcohol and other drugs.

Did you know that, on average, 42% of 7th, 9th and 11th grade students in Union County reported that their parents talked to them "never" or “seldom” talked to them about alcohol and drugs? (2012 Union County YRBS)

The average age for a teen to try alcohol, tobacco or other drugs for the first time is 13. But you can help your teen stay healthy and drug-free. Kids who learn about the risks of drugs from their parents are up to 50 percent less likely to use. (2007 Partnership Attitude Tracking Study) So, most importantly, stay involved. Young teens may say they don't need your guidance, but they're much more open to it than they'll ever let on. Here’s how you can stay connected:

Spend Time hanging out together. It will give insight into what is going on with friends and school.

Include Friends of your child in fun activities. Get to know their parents too.

Listen to what your child says first. They want to feel like what they say matters to you without hearing your advice first.

Talk early and often with them about your family rules to not use alcohol and drugs.

Be Clear about your expectations and the possible consequences.

Adolescence is a time of many changes and big decision-making. Be sure to talk regularly, remain engaged in your child’s everyday life and continuously strive to strengthen the connection. A strong and positive relationship now will serve you and your child both today and down the road.

Check out the video below, and browse ucdrugfree.org to find more ways to keep your children safe and drug free.